DISTRICT 4-3A DIV. II WEEK 1 REPORT: Merkel opens with surprising win at Ballinger

Merkel 38, Ballinger 26 — Sophomore standout Easton Malone threw for 319 yards and four scores as Merkel stunned Ballinger on the road to snap a 10-game losing streak. 

Malone, who also rushed for 26 yards and another score, hit six different receivers, including six passes to Kaden Blubaugh for 190 yards and four scores. 

Merkel’s last win came on Nov. 3 of 2023 in a season finale at home against Millsap (41-20).